Eamonn Coghlan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

While we might not be able to run along the Wild Atlantic Way, it is attracting many motorcyclists from overseas.

From my work in the charity sector I know it give charities an opportunity to create challenges along the Wild Atlantic Way to raise funds for its respective causes.

Recent research indicated that the view of Dublin is a little dusty. If we look out the window tonight we can see it is a little foggy, as it was when I drove here from the sports awards, but the initiative to invigorate and rebrand Dublin is very welcome. The Grow Dublin Taskforce chaired by my good friend, Michael Carey, who was recently appointed, is fantastic and I know Michael's leadership will add greatly to that initiative. This is all about putting the visitor at the heart of the strategy. The final report from the Grow Dublin Taskforce, Destination Dublin: A Collective Strategy for Tourism Growth to 2020, was launched in January of this year and a new plan for tourism in Dublin envisages up to 7% growth year on year, with spending expected to increase by approximately 8.6% per annum. Spending by international visitors up to 2020 would almost double by perhaps €2.5 billion, which would be a phenomenal contribution to our economy.

While we know that Dublin is performing well in terms of tourism revenue and jobs, much more needs to be done to promote Dublin and all that it can offer. That is now under way with the taskforce. Six out of the top ten tourist attractions in Ireland for 2013 are located here in Dublin but we need to bring together all the interests and sectors in Dublin to promote the city and the surrounding areas. The city has many popular tourist attractions as well as some hidden gems such as back street restaurants and small, funky cafés but what is great about Dublin is its proximity to the many beautiful spots north, south, east and west of the city, from the Dublin mountains to the sea attractions on either side of the city from Greystones to Howth.

Not only is there a focus on Dublin but also on the south and the east coasts from the north east and the Boyne Valley down to the Wexford and Waterford coastlines. This is a living history project which will provide a balance on the east coast to the Wild Atlantic Way, and animate our country's culture and heritage. It will be fantastic.

I want to raise one or two more issues. I know from my experience the great work-----